The Laker/Lutz News

Serving Pasco since 1981/Serving Lutz since 1964

Brian Fernandes

Local orchestra to liven Heritage Park field

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The Florida Orchestra will amplify the field of Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park with a live performance on Oct. 27.

Hosted by the Heritage Park Foundation, the “Brass with a Beat” event will be free to the public and starts at 5 p.m.

A view looking over the shoulder of Bill Mickelsen, during last year’s performance by The Florida Orchestra Brass Quintet at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park. This year, members of The Florida Orchestra will perform a ‘Brass with a Beat’ concert at Land O’ Lakes Heritage Park on Oct. 27, followed by the movie ‘Little Shop of Horrors.’ (File)

This will mark the orchestra’s second year performing on the park’s stage, which opened in 2017, after a persistent and collaborative effort to create a venue for community events.

The orchestra’s Daniel Black will lead an 18-piece ensemble of brass and percussion instruments to play fanfares and notable works.

“[We’d] like this to be a roaring success, something the community can get behind and just enjoy,” said Sandy Graves of the Heritage Park Foundation.

Attendees will be charged a $5 parking fee and are asked to bring their own chairs or blankets.

Concert-goers can bring their dogs, as long as the canines are kept on their leashes.

Food trucks will be on site with refreshments and an 8 p.m. showing of the film “Little Shop of Horrors,” will follow after the concert.

Proceeds will benefit The Florida Orchestra.

The Florida Orchestra’s “Brass with a Beat”
Where: Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd in Land O’ Lakes
When: Oct. 27, 5 p.m.
Cost: Free
Details: The Florida Orchestra will put on a brass and percussion concert, which will be followed by an evening movie.
Info: Call Heritage Park at (813) 929-1229.

Published October 24, 2018

Pasco-Hernando State College remembers Dr. Robert Judson, Jr.

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A crowd poured into the Pasco-Hernando State College’s Performing Arts Center in New Port Richey to honor Dr. Robert Judson Jr.

Judson, the college’s former president, passed away on Sept. 17 at the age of 77.

The John Missionary Baptist Church male choir performed several spiritual songs at the Pasco-Hernando State College memorial service for Dr. Robert Judson, Jr. on Oct. 9. (Courtesy of John Stalter/Pasco-Hernando State College)

He made history in 1994 when he became the first black president of a college within the Florida Community College system. At the time, PHSC was still known as a community college.

The memorial, held on the college’s New Port Richey campus, came several weeks after Judson’s funeral service on Sept. 29, at the Hopewell Baptist Church in Pompano Beach.

The tone of the memorial was reverent, as Pastor Mitchell Davis Jr., from the Church of God in Christ, offered an opening prayer.

But, the arts center came alive with singing and clapping when the crowd joined in with the John Missionary Baptist Church male choir, in a series of spiritual songs.

Between scripture readings, Imani Asukile, Judson’s PHSC colleague, performed an African libation ceremony — watering a flower bush in remembrance of his friend.

As the service progressed, the audience, of approximately 200, came to know more about Judson’s life story.

Pasco-Hernando State College President Timothy Beard reflected on the life of Dr. Robert Judson Jr., during the Oct. 9 memorial service.

The memorial was marked by tears and laughter, as former colleagues, fellow church-goers, friends and family shared stories of the man — with a deep, commanding voice — that  they respected and loved.

Judson’s academic life began at Southern University in Louisiana.

In 1962, he married his high school sweetheart, Ellen Atkins, and served in the Army.

He graduated from Florida A & M University in 1969 with a degree in European history, and then earned a master’s degree in counseling from the same university in 1972.

Later that year, he joined what was then known as Pasco-Hernando Community College, as one of the college’s first instructors. He was hired by Milton Jones, the school’s founding president.

Judson served as a recruiter and a counselor while pursuing a doctorate degree in education.

During his tenure at the college, he was instrumental in buying the land for the Spring Hill campus, as well as erecting buildings for health programs, childcare and technology at several PHSC branches.

Judson’s graduation regalia – cap, gown, shawls and medallions – were neatly displayed on the stage next to the podium where speakers offered words of reflection.

Katherine Johnson, a former president at PHSC, said, “Bob approached me with a statement that proved both flattering and eventually career-altering for me.”

She succeeded Judson in 2005, after he encouraged her to apply for his job.

Timothy Beard, the college’s current president, told the audience: “He was a man with a great soul. He has certainly made a difference at PHSC.”

Pasco-Hernando State College staff member Imani Asukile performed an African libation ceremony in honor of his friend, Dr. Robert Judson Jr.

Beyond his contributions to academia, Judson took an active role in community outreach, helping to rebuild the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) in Pasco County.

He was an active member of several Baptist churches, received recognition from the African-American Heritage Society and won the Dr. Carter G. Woodson Award.

Before his passing, Judson and his wife, Ellen, had the opportunity to start a scholarship program for PHSC students.

Sarah Majka, a recipient of the Dr. Robert and Ellen Judson Scholarship, shared her gratitude for the financial support.

“I’ll forever be thankful for being one of the many students who have benefited from Dr. and Mrs. Judson’s generosity,” Majka said.

While the president was known for his various academic accomplishments and community outreach, there were those who saw him in a more personal light.

There was no doubt about Judson’s top priority, said Maurice Jones, a longtime friend, who spoke at the service. “Bob was truly a family-first man.”

His wife of 56 years, their three daughters and grandchildren shared final thoughts with the audience before the reception.

“His best achievement was loving his family,” said granddaughter, Chanelle Thomas. “Thoughts of my granddad inspire me every day.”

Published October 17, 2018

Pasco County to hold first Alzheimer’s walk

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When Jennifer Graff realized her mother was losing her independence, little did she know that she would become a full-time caregiver.

Graff’s mother, Rose, was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2011, after a horrific car crash.

Since then, she has resided in several living facilities while gradually losing her memory.

On Oct. 20, attendees of Pasco County’s first Walk to End Alzheimer’s will be able to take part in the 3-mile journey and learn more about supporting the cause. (Courtesy of the Alzheimer’s Association’s Florida Gulf Coast Chapter Facebook page)

Graff will walk on behalf of her mother on Oct. 20 during Pasco County’s first Walk to End Alzheimer’s program.

The event will be held at Starkey Ranch District Park in Odessa, open to both the public and their pets.

“We want it to be as accessible as possible for everybody,” said Kaylie Male of the Alzheimer’s Association’s Florida Gulf Coast Chapter. “Whether or not you can afford to make a donation, you can still come out.”

Participants can register either individually or as a team, beginning at 8 a.m. Donations are welcome, but not required.

Everyone who is registered will receive a Promise Garden flower. The flowers will come in four colors – purple, blue, yellow and orange – each representing the participant’s relation to Alzheimer’s disease.

The Promise Garden Ceremony will be at 9 a.m., where everyone will get to display their flowers.

“It’s a really wonderful opportunity for people to bond,” Male said, noting the ceremony serves to unite strangers.

After that, there’s a 3-mile walk, which is expected to attract more than 300 walkers.

This will be Graff’s fourth walk. She said she generally heads to the front of the line so she can turn around to marvel at the number of those present.

“I’m so proud of the people standing around me and everyone trying to help find a cure,” she said.

Graff visits her mother on weekdays at a Tampa assisted living facility, helping to make sure her needs are adequately met.

“My mom is almost a completely different person from who she was,” Graff said reflecting on her mother’s transition.

Although she has witnessed the slow regression, she said she takes solace in knowing her mother is content and at peace with the world.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, more than 5 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease. More than 14,000 of those are Pasco residents.

“We really knew there was a need in the area,” said Male, on why the county was chosen for this year’s walk.

The event will provide education on the disease, advocacy opportunities, clinical studies enrollment and support programs.

The Edward Jones corporation is the 2018 National Presenting Sponsor for the Alzheimer’s Association. It has already pledged to raise $4 million for this year.

The company’s New Port Richey branch will accept ‘early bird’ donations on Oct. 18, as well as Wesley Chapel Nissan on Oct. 16.

Donations also can be made through the Florida Gulf Coast Chapter’s Facebook page or by using the Walk to End Alzheimer’s phone app.

To preregister before the event, visit Act.alz.org/pasco.

For additional information, contact Kaylie Male at (727) 578-2558 or .

Walk to End Alzheimer’s
Where: Starkey Ranch District Park, 11880 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa
When: Oct. 20; registration at 8 a.m., and walk at 9 a.m.
Cost: Free
Details: The public is welcome to join Pasco County’s first Alzheimer’s walk to raise funds and awareness.
Info: Contact Kaylie Male at (727) 578-2558 or . Preregistration and donations can be made online at Act.alz.org/pasco.

Published October 17, 2018

Annual Autumn Day event set at Old Lutz School

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If you want to learn about butterfly migration, visit an old-time school or purchase some items from vendors, you’ll have your chance at Autumn Day on Oct. 20, at the Old Lutz School in Lutz.

The event will be held on the historic school’s grounds, at 18819 U.S. 41, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Ginny Grantham will make a return with her Ginny’s Gems for Autumn Day on Oct. 20. (File)

Lynn Barber of the UF/IFAS Hillsborough County Extension will offer a class at 10 a.m., to explain butterfly migration.

The course will also count toward community hours for parents with students attending Learning Gate Community School.

A variety of vendors will be selling food, crafts, jewelry and other items.

Those attending the festival can also go inside the school where they can tour its museum, which displays items collected from the community over the years.

A scavenger hunt will be held, to move visitors around the school and help them learn about its history.

“A lot of people don’t know that the schoolhouse is a historical landmark and it’s run by volunteers and donations,” said Stephanie Ensor of the Citizens for the Old Lutz School. “This is a good opportunity to educate people on that.”

Proceeds will go toward the Citizens for the Old Lutz School, which is hosting the event. The organization uses community funds to keep the two-story building intact as a local monument.

The event will have free parking and is pet-friendly.

For additional information, contact Stephanie Ensor at (813) 244-2256 or at .

Autumn Day
Where: Old Lutz School, 18819 U.S. 41, in Lutz
When: Oct. 20, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Cost: Free
Details: Visitors will have the opportunity to tour the school museum, take part in a scavenger hunt and do a little shopping, too.
Info: Contact Stephanie Ensor at (813) 244-2256 or .

Published October 17, 2018

Lutz girl to star in upcoming musical

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Twelve-year old Olivia Carr says she loves the feeling of butterflies in her stomach when she’s on stage – a feeling she may experience for her upcoming performance, “Violet – The Musical.”

The musical, which includes a live orchestra, is a modern-day adaptation of the 1969 story, “The Ugliest Pilgrim,” by Doris Betts.

Olivia Carr, left, and Brianna Filippelli will both star as the lead character Violet in the upcoming production, ‘Violet – The Musical,’ starting Oct. 19. (Courtesy of New Tampa Players Facebook Page)

Olivia, a Lutz resident, will play the younger version of the lead character, Violet – with Brianna Filippelli as the older version.

The story takes place in 1964 and shows Violet’s journey through the U.S. South to meet an evangelist she believes will heal her of a face scar.

Olivia began acting three years ago, saying she was drawn to the stage after seeing a friend’s performance.

“I saw it — and how production came to life,” she said. “It really inspired me to go out and try it.”

While she has a prominent role, Olivia said it takes all of the actors and singers to create the show.

Olivia has always loved singing, but her parents said they weren’t aware of her desire to act and perform in public.

“We were really surprised,” recalled her mother Tami. “We didn’t know that she had this gift.”

The New Tampa Players (NTP) production of “Violet — The Musical,” will be held at the University Area Community Center in Tampa on Oct. 19 through Oct. 21 and Oct. 26 through Oct. 28.

The cast is made up of mostly adults and they’ve been supportive of Olivia – something her mother appreciates.

Olivia had performed in shows such as “Alice in Wonderland” and “Peter Pan” before she made her NTP debut this summer in “Annie.”

The production company was established in 2002 and holds open auditions for every show.

Nora Paine, NTP president, wants the power of human interaction to be the take-away from the upcoming show.

“Each person that we come in contact with, we affect their lives and they affect ours,” she said.

Proceeds from the show will go toward the NTP and tickets can be purchased online at NewTampaPlayers.org.

For additional information, call (813) 644-8285, or visit the website.

Violet – The Musical
Where: University Area Community Center, 14013 N. 22nd St., in Tampa
When: Oct. 19 through Oct. 21, Oct. 26 through Oct. 28; Fridays at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m. *The Oct. 20 performance will begin at 2:30 p.m.
Cost: $25 per adult; $23 for students, seniors or military; $20 for group of 10 or more
Details: The performance is about a young girl’s interactions with people through the South, while on a quest to meet an evangelist.
Info: Contact the New Tampa Players at (813) 644-8285 or NewTampaPlayers.org. Tickets can also be purchased online.

Published October 17, 2018

Pasco County Fairgrounds gears up for Rattlesnake Festival

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The Rattlesnake Festival, a community tradition for more than a half-century, has moved to a new locale — the Pasco County Fairgrounds.

The move from San Antonio City Park — its venue for 51 years — comes as the event’s host, The Thomas Promise Foundation, decided it was time for a roomier setting.

The Crabgrass Cowboys perform at the San Antonio Rattlesnake Festival & Run, celebrating the festival’s 50th anniversary. The festival is now called The Rattlesnake Festival. (File)

While shifting to the fairgrounds, many of the event’s traditions will continue.

For instance, Tony and Carol Noble, are set to open their kettle corn stand; the popular gopher tortoise races will be offered; Cowboy Tom will be there; and there’ll be a snake show, too.

The two-day event is set for Oct. 20 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Oct. 21 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The admission charge is $5, with free entry for those age 2 and younger.

Tony Noble, who was raised in San Antonio, reflected on what made the festival special to him as a kid, such as the races and the grilled barbecue chicken dinners.

The festival has evolved over time, but many of activities he grew up with will be offered this year, he said.

Jim Mendenhall’s snake show is one of those longstanding festival features. The Squamata Reptile show provides a chance for people to learn about snakes and other reptiles, and to see them in action, too.

The Croc Encounters crocodile show, will be there, too, and so will Florida Fish and Wildlife’s demonstration. There will be a petting zoo and pony rides for the kids.

Cowboy Tom will saddle up on his horse for his Wild West Show, and children will have the opportunity to compete their wooden turtles in the Gopher Race.

A $15 wristband will allow visitors unlimited fair rides, and individual tickets can be purchased for one-time rides.

Vendors will offer food, crafts and other items for purchase.

Miss Pasco County Courtney Graham will open the festival with the national anthem Saturday at 9:45 a.m.

Other live performances will include Jesse and Noah Bellamy, Johnny Shelton and the Showstoppers.

The 40th Rattlesnake Run will remain at San Antonio Park and take place on Oct. 20 at 8 a.m.

Participants can choose the 1-mile or 5-mile run and are welcome to bring their dogs.

Proceeds from the festival and run will go toward The Thomas Promise Foundation, which distributes more than 1,200 food bags to Pasco County students on Friday, so children don’t go hungry over the weekend.

The organization decided to take over the annual festival after the San Antonio Rotary Club celebrated the festival’s 50th anniversary in 2016.

“We were very successful last year,” said Joe Simmons, executive director of the foundation. “We raised enough funds to be able to provide over 40,000 meals to kids within our program.”

The Thomas Promise Foundation will co-host this year’s run with the Zephyrhills High School cross-country team and the I Play Track Foundation.

A portion of the funds collected from the run will go toward a member of the school’s cross-country team who is suffering from bone cancer.

Rattlesnake Festival
Where: Pasco County Fairgrounds, 36722 State Road 52 in Dade City
When: Oct. 20, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Oct 21, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Cost: $5 admission; free for those age 2 and younger
Details: Vendors, live performances, animals and food
Info: Contact Joe Simmons at (813) 782-0000 or , or visit RattlesnakeFestival.com.

PUblished October 17, 2018

Car giveaway helps Pasco woman on her road to success

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Melissa Pack finally has a car she can call her own.

The Zephyrhills woman received the keys to a 2000 Hyundai Elantra at the United Way of Pasco County, in Land O’ Lakes, on Oct. 1.

Before she received the car, the 37-year-old had no personal means of transportation.

Spectators watched at the ceremony where Pack received the car, which came complete with a big red bow.

Melissa Pack is all smiles, as she sits in her Hyundai Elantra, which she received through Wheels of Success and United Way of Pasco County. (Brian Fernandes)

The gift was made possible through the collaboration of Wheels of Success and United Way of Pasco County.

Wheels of Success CEO Susan Jacobs offered a few words, before presenting the keys to Pack, who works as a cashier at the Lowes Home Improvement store in Zephyrhills.

Those celebrating the moment included Pack’s supervisor, John Chilbert; Pasco County Commissioner Ron Oakley; and Alice Delgardo, president of United Way of Pasco.

Chilbert was the one who worked behind-the-scenes to help get the car for Pack.

He took notice of his employee’s unwavering dedication, and the fact that Pack had never missed a shift and voluntarily worked additional hours. He also knew that she accomplished that without having her own transportation.

So, along with the Make a Difference charity, Chilbert referred Pack’s current situation to Wheels of Success and United Way to see what could be done.

“For every person we put in a car, we turn down 20,” Jacobs said. “We do about 50 to 100 cars a year on average.”

Established in 2003, Wheels of Success doesn’t receive government funding. It relies on vehicle and community donations.

Jacobs explained the importance of collaborating with other organizations, as about 80 percent of their car giveaways have been joint efforts.

Its partner, United Way of Pasco County, allocated grant money on a quarterly basis to help finance the car.

“We were able to, because of community dollars, grant them funding to do this,” said United Way’s Patty Sutton of the local support.

Through the partnership, Pack was put on the ‘Build a Life’ program, which is intended to help get drivers on their feet after having setbacks of some kind.

Pack will also receive evaluations to make sure the vehicle is up to par with its expected standards, and she has year-long roadside assistance with AAA through Wheels of Success.

In addition to giving her a way to get to work, the car is beneficial in other ways, too, Pack said.

“I’ll be able to get groceries easier, day-to-day things that people don’t think about when they have a car,” said Pack.

She realizes that it not only helps her directly, but it also has a positive impact on those who rely on her as well.

Before receiving the Elantra, Pack had to find a way to get her mother to her doctor appointments. Sometimes that meant borrowing a friend’s vehicle.

Sutton hopes the community understands that their generous donations ultimately help to make life better for people like Pack.

“You’re not helping an organization, and you’re not giving a hand-out. You’re helping an individual,” Sutton said.

Published October 10, 2018

Dade City Scarecrow Festival aims to be fun

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The Pioneer Florida Museum and Village in Dade City is gearing up for its annual Scarecrow Festival, set for Oct. 13.

An array of live performances will be given throughout the day, including the East Pasco Gymnastics Team and songs by Mr. Tommy.

The Indian Corn Maze, a new attraction, will allow guests to navigate turns from start to finish at this year’s Scarecrow Festival. (Courtesy of Brenda Minton)

Food concession stands will be available, as well as vendors offering items such as jewelry, beauty products, clothing and crafts.

Professional portraits will be offered by Christina Strong Photography from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., free of charge. Photos will be posted on the museum Facebook page for guests to download.

Some picture-worthy engagements include snapshots with Ruby Cornbread – a live scarecrow, as well as decorated hay rolls and pumpkin patch cut-outs.

Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for students and free for those age 5 and younger.

Visitors also will have the opportunity to create and take home their own scarecrows for $5, while Conductor Joe will offer free rides on his barrel train.

A new attraction, the corn maze, will allow participants to find their way through  for $2 a person, with no charge for those age 3 and younger.

Parking is free at the museum and the Robert D. Summer Judicial courthouse.

Buses will be available to shuttle guests from the courthouse to the museum for free.

Pets are not allowed at the event.

Proceeds will benefit the Pioneer Florida Museum and Village, and the Special Olympics.

“[The function] allows us to host school field trips at reasonable prices, and provide historical preservation and education in the community,” said Brenda Minton, museum event coordinator.

Scarecrow Festival
Where: Pioneer Florida Museum and Village, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City
When: Oct. 13, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Cost: $10 for adults, $5 for students, and free for age 5 and younger
Details: Food, games, prizes, and the chance to create and take home scarecrows
Info: Contact Brenda Minton at (352) 206-8889 or at .

Published October 10, 2018

Pasco Picnic set to ‘talk old times’

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The annual Old Timers Picnic will be held on Oct. 13, inside the Clayton Building at Pasco County Fairgrounds in Dade City.

Traditionally, the event has been hosted by the Burkett family. But, this year’s picnic will be headed by Sam Sessa, along with a committee.

Long-time Pasco residents come to the annual Old Timers Picnic to socialize and share homemade dishes. This group attended a previous gathering. (File)

Anyone who has lived in Pasco County for 20 years or longer is invited to attend, and those joining in the festivities are welcome to bring their families.

There’s no official start time. Food will be set out and ready to eat at noon, but guests are encouraged to come earlier to socialize.

The picnic offers visitors the opportunity to reminisce , to look through scrapbooks and old newspapers, and to enjoy a potluck meal.

“You get a feeling of camaraderie – talking to your old friends and how the way things used to be,” said Diane Jones, who helps to publicize the event.

Attendees are asked to bring their own covered dish to share and tableware, as the setting will be potluck-style.

The committee will be serving fish, as well as lemonade and iced tea.

Prizes will be available for the oldest man and woman attending, the couple married the longest and the person who traveled the farthest.

A brief business meeting will also be held to elect committee officers for the following year.

Old Timers Picnic
Where: Pasco County Fairgrounds Clayton Building, 36722 State Road 52 in Dade City
When: Oct. 13. Food will be put out at noon, but those attending are encouraged to come earlier.
Cost: Free (Please bring a dish to share)
Details: Anyone who has lived in Pasco County longer than 20 years is invited and is welcome to bring their family. There’s a chance to win a prize, to share stories and photos, and to partake in a potluck meal.
Info: Call Diane Jones at (352) 588-3368, or email her at  .  

Published October 10, 2018

Water district officials discuss proposed Pierce Lake guidelines

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The Southwest Florida Water Management District is proposing new minimum levels for Pierce Lake, and held a meeting in Land O’ Lakes recently to explain the changes and accept public comment.

Minimum levels are established to protect lakes and wetlands, according to district experts. The minimum level is the limit at which further water withdrawals will cause significant harm to the water resources, and/or the environment.

Environmentalist scientist David Carr explained proposed guidelines for Pierce Lake during a Sept. 28 presentation at Connerton Elementary School, in Land O’ Lakes. (Brian Fernandes)

Pierce Lake is southwest of the intersection, between State Road 52 and U.S. 41. It lies within the Gowers Corner Slough basin.

Pierce Lake has no significant inflow other than overland flow, and at stages above 72.6 feet, it discharges through a ditch at its southern end across a field, according to materials prepared by the water management district.

Both outflows enter the same wetland to the lake’s southwest, the technical report says. It also notes that the topography is flat, and flows are often negligible.

Pierce Lake was selected for reevaluation based on development of modeling tools used to simulate nature water level fluctuations in lake basins that were not available when the current minimum lake levels for the lake were developed, the report adds.

“The review process does take a very holistic look the way this lake’s levels interact with all various different uses and indicators,” Joel Brown, government affairs manager for the water management district, told those gathered.

Such factors taken into consideration include acreage, species in or around the lake, recreational activities and water quality.

Minimum and guidance levels for Pierce were first approved in November 2006 and later implemented in 2008.

These levels are categorized into four parts, each providing a guideline for what healthy water elevation should look like for any given lake.

Environmental scientist David Carr and hydrogeologist Cortney Cameron provided a presentation, detailing how Pierce Lake’s lake levels have varied since 1981.

Cameron, who has studied the lake site for reevaluation, explained how Pierce Lake’s level has varied over decades, plus what it would look like without regional ground pumping.

“Pierce can fluctuate quite a bit,” she said, during her presentation. “Our records show that it’s fluctuated 8 feet in about two years.”

This two-year window occurred from 1998, when records showed elevation at its highest, to 2000, when it was at its lowest. Since then, levels have not varied significantly.

The North Pasco well field was Pierce’s closest water source until it was discontinued earlier this year. The nearest well field is now at Cross Bar Ranch, running at 12,500 acres in North-Central Pasco.

From 1981 to 2003, it was steadily pumping about 25 million gallons of water a day. In the past 15 years, it has cut down to 12 million gallons.

Studies show the correlation between a decline in pumping and the gradual rise of Pierce Lake’s elevation.

Attendees at the workshop did not express major concerns.

The scientists also noted that the elevation growth has not been substantial.

“It’s not the highest it’s ever been and not the highest it’s ever going to be,” Carr said.

The proposed level guidelines for Pierce are not substantially different from the ones adopted in 2008.

The recommended high guidance level is 72.7 feet, which is the same as the previously adopted level.

The recommended high minimum lake level is 71.9 feet, which is slightly less than the previously adopted level of 72.2 feet.

The recommended minimum lake level is 69.8 feet, which is slightly less than the previously adopted level of 70.5 feet.

The recommended low guidance level is 68.5 feet, which is slightly less than the previously adopted 68.9 feet.

The water management district’s governing board is set to make its ruling in November.

A draft report for Pierce Lake’s minimum levels can be found at WaterMatters.org/mflreports.

For additional information, contact David Carr at (800) 423-1476, ext. 4246, or at .

Published October 10, 2018